‘Psychotic’ patron attacks Auburn children’s librarian

AUBURN — The Auburn Public Library is reviewing security after a children’s librarian landed in the hospital with a concussion after an attack by a patron.

Police say 19-year-old Kewane Pontoo suffered what they called a “psychotic break” Friday when he attacked Laurie Pinkham in front of several children.

Library officials say Pontoo was acting agitated when Pinkham asked him to calm down or leave. Library Director Lynn Lockwood says he left, but returned and went after Pinkham.

Pinkham’s husband said in an email to the Sun Journal that his wife was punched in the head, arms and stomach and knocked to the floor. She was treated at Central Maine Medical Center for a concussion.

Several library employees and a patron restrained Pontoo until police arrived. He was charged with assault.

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